Reasons for Maintaining Biodiversity

There are three main reasons for maintaining biodiversity. These are aesthetic, economic and ecological.Biodiversity is essential for the processes that support all life on Earth. We need a wide range of animals, plants and microorganisms for the healthy ecosystems that provide food and oxygen.For many people, nature is aesthetically pleasing. Spending time in green spaces can lead to improvements in people’s physical and mental health and has been shown to decrease hospital admissions, reduce stress and lower blood pressure.Humans depend upon biodiversity. Pollinators such as birds, bees and other insects are responsible for up to a third of the world's crop production. Without pollinators we would not have apples, cherries, blueberries, almonds and many other foods we eat.Agriculture is reliant upon microorganisms and invertebrates that help maintain healthy soil by recycling nutrients.The oceans are the main source of animal protein for many people.Trees, bushes and wetlands and wild grasslands naturally slow down water and help soil to absorb rainfall. When they are removed it can increase flooding.Trees and other plants clean the air we breathe and absorb carbon dioxide, lessening the pace of climate change. Coral reefs and mangrove forests act as natural defences protecting coastlines from waves and storms.Many medicines and materials such as rubber, originate from plants.